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Preference shakeup after minor party controversy
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An investigation into a minor party’s relationship with gun lobbyists has provoked a debate about how the major parties will order preferences at the upcoming federal election. The use of preferences is a divisive issue for both major parties but will be particularly concerning for the Government due to the growth of right-wing minor parties in key seats.
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An Al-Jazeera investigation found populist right-wing party One Nation tried to solicit funds from the US-based gun lobby the National Rifle Association. The leaders of both major parties condemned One Nation and stated they would direct voters to place One Nation last on voting cards. In Australia’s electoral system, voters rank candidates on the ballot paper, so if nobody wins an absolute majority of first preference votes, their other preferences count towards the result.
The Government’s decision to preference One Nation last is significant given its divisions on how to handle the party. Some in the Coalition seek closer alignment with One Nation, as they are concerned about losing votes to right-wing minor parties and independents, as evidenced by the New South Wales election. However, others see One Nation as too extreme, and believe associating with them could deter moderate voters from supporting the Coalition. This has been a pressing concern for the Government since the Victorian election, where the Coalition performed well-below expectations in metropolitan areas. Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s decision was influenced by the bipartisan support for strong gun regulations, which has existed in Australia since the 1996 mass shooting in Port Arthur, Tasmania.
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One Nation leader Pauline Hanson (centre) responding to the Al Jazeera investigative report on her party’s interaction with the National Rifle Association. Senator Hanson is flanked by her Advisor James Ashby (left) and One Nation Member of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland Steve Dickson (right). Source |
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Opposition clarifies living wage promise
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The Opposition has provided further details on its plan to establish a living wage in Australia, as it prepares to make slow wage growth a key issue at the upcoming election.
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Leader of the Opposition Bill Shorten stated he will require the Fair Work Commission (FWC) to set the minimum wage based on a broader range of criteria, including the cost of living, tax payments and welfare benefits. Mr Shorten said the change could be made through legislation or submission, but the ultimate responsibility for maintaining the living wage would rest with the FWC. The Opposition has sought to distance the policy from submissions made by the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU), by framing the change within the existing independent framework and allowing an extended timeline for implementation. Nevertheless, the Government and business leaders have continued to raise doubts about the effect of the policy on employment and the broader economy.
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"A living wage should make sure people earn enough to make ends meet, and be informed by what it costs to live in Australia today – to pay for housing, for food, for utilities, to pay for a basic phone and data plan,''
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—Leader of the Opposition Bill Shorten explaining the Australian Labor Party’s approach to a living wage.
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Analysis of latest poll results
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The Australian has released an aggregate of Newspolls for 2019, which showed the Opposition leading the Government 53 – 47 on the two-party preferred measure over the past three months. This lead is represented in all five mainland states, with the Opposition’s lead strongest in South Australia at 56 per cent, and weakest in Western Australia, at 51 per cent. The primary vote for the two major parties is roughly equal, with the Government at 37 per cent, slightly behind the Opposition on 39 per cent. Finally, the poll shows Prime Minister Scott Morrison consistently ahead of Mr Shorten on the preferred Prime Minister measure, leading 44 – 35.
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Energy set to be a key Budget issue
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Both major parties have revealed energy initiatives ahead of the budget this week, with the Government continuing its focus on household energy costs while the Opposition strengthens its renewable energy drive. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has announced a one-off payment to assist disadvantaged Australian’s manage power bills and cost of living expenses. Meanwhile, the Opposition says it will offer a tax deduction to companies which buy electric cars. Energy policy is one of the clearest areas of difference between the two parties and will almost certainly play a key role in the election campaign.
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Berejiklian reshuffles ministry
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New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian has reassigned ministerial portfolios following her election victory last month. This was Premier Berejiklian’s first electoral victory as Premier, so it gave her the opportunity to reshape the NSW ministry. The resignation of Niall Blair meant key portfolios like trade, primary industries and regional water needed to be reassigned. Deputy Premier John Barilaro took responsibility for trade and industry policy, alongside his existing regional NSW portfolio.
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Government shortlists energy companies to underwrite
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The Government has shortlisted 12 energy companies it will consider underwriting. The list did not include the establishment of any new coal projects, despite support for such an initiative from some elements within the Coalition, particularly in Queensland. However, the Government may underwrite the upgrade of an existing coal-fired power station and will conduct a A$10 million feasibility study into Queensland’s energy needs, which will consider a new coal project.
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Anti-encryption bill faces criticism
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Microsoft President Brad Smith has joined other technology leaders in criticising the Australia’s recently introduced anti-encryption legislation. The laws will require companies to assist law enforcement in accessing encrypted messages. Mr Smith said companies are less willing to store their data in Australia and suggested this could have negative implications for the Australian economy. The Opposition has committed to amending the legislation if it is elected. Shadow Minister for Human Services and the Digital Economy Ed Husic said a warrant would be required before companies are forced to build a decryption method for their platforms.
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